Markus Zusevics, OL

Like Marcus Forston, Markus Zusevics was primarily a practice-squadder in 2012.

He was activated to the roster once on Thanksgiving, but didn't get any playing time.

2013 Outlook: Zusevics was considered a mid-to-low round draft pick before injuring his pectoral muscle during the combine last February and missed all of training camp because of the injury. Maybe he has a chance to earn a role on the team in 2013, but it's a long shot.

Alfonzo Dennard, CB

Alfonzo Dennard played extremely well in 2012, beating out Kyle Arrington and cementing his spot as the starting right cornerback.

Despite being a bit undersized at just 5'10'', Dennard covered well against bigger receivers and looked particularly good at defending the deep ball as the season went on.

Drafted in the seventh round, Dennard looks like the steal of 2012 draft.

2013 Outlook: Dennard should be a big part of New England's secondary going forward. He may have to fend off a healthy Ras-I Dowling for a starting role, but there's nothing that suggests he won't be able to do that.

Jake Bequette, DE

Jake Bequette may find himself on the hot seat in 2013 after essentially doing nothing in 2012.

The Patriots' 2012 third-round draft selection was leapfrogged on the depth chart by undrafted rookie defensive end Justin Francis and only dressed for two games.

To be fair, young players develop at different rates. Given his good size (6'4'', 265 lbs) and collegiate production at Arkansas (10 sacks in 2011), there is still a lot to like about Bequette, but Bill Belichick will only wait so long.

2013 Outlook: If Bequette immerses himself in the playbook and gets stronger this offseason, there's no reason to think he can't help the team in 2013. If all goes well, Bequette should be a situational pass rusher next season.

Chandler Jones, DE

Jones was well on his way to earning double-digit sacks before injuring his ankle halfway through his inaugural season.

Before getting hurt, Jones was disruptive in the passing game and stout against the run.

His first priority this offseason should be getting healthy, and then he needs to hit the weights hard and grow into his long frame a bit more.

2013 Outlook: Jones will return as the starting right defensive end and will be a key cog along the defensive line. If he stays healthy, expect Jones to be one of the better pass rushers in the AFC next season.